Don’t Be Indifferent About Your Vehicle’s Differential

CPS • March 9, 2022
Mechanic in blue coveralls inspecting a vehicle’s undercarriage in an auto repair shop

Most vehicle owners understand the importance of regular oil changes and tire rotations. However, other maintenance gets put on the back burner because of cost or time constraints. Oftentimes, people ignore service recommendations until they require repair. The saying “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it” does not apply to vehicle maintenance. Without regular vehicle upkeep, parts or whole systems such as the differential can stop working without warning or become costly to fix.

 What Is Your Vehicle’s Differential?

The differential is part of the drivetrain and helps to evenly distribute vehicle power to each wheel. When a car turns, the pair of wheels rotate at different speeds. The outer wheel travels faster than the inner wheel, so as you round a corner, the differential ensures that both wheels have equal torque (the twisting force that causes wheels to rotate around an axle.) Having even torque in both wheels provides better traction while turning, keeping your car in control.  

 What Is Differential Fluid?

Differential fluid or gear fluid lubricates the gear housing compartment, which holds the bearings, clutch pads, and gears. The differential fluid prevents overheating of the friction from metal-on-metal contact. Old, grimy fluid or low differential fluid can cause rattling noises and lead to the rear wheels locking up, which can cause an accident. It can also damage the differential and associated parts, resulting in costly repairs.

Now that you better understand how hard differentials work to keep your vehicle operating safely, don’t be indifferent about it. Mechanics recommend changing your differential fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Doing so can save you from excessive repair and replacement costs. Check your vehicle’s mileage and service records to determine if it’s time for differential fluid service. If your vehicle is a four-wheel drive, your mechanic may need to service both differentials.

Drive into Team CAMC today for a differential fluid change or any other vehicle maintenance needs.

Team CAMC is your Complete Auto Maintenance Center. For over 30 years, we have followed a single guiding principle: we never push or sell services a vehicle doesn’t need. Our team of trained technicians welcomes you like family and discusses all types of oil and fluid changes offered. Critical points are reviewed through a 13-point inspection to ensure your vehicle is ready for the next adventure on the road ahead. Contact us today to schedule the professional service you deserve from a team you trust.

< Older Post
Two old gas pumps under a canopy at an abandoned roadside station, with weeds and containers nearby.

What Affects Vehicle Gas Mileage?

By CPS • February 11, 2022
For many people, their vehicle serves as their primary form of transportation. Whether it’s going to work, home, school, grocery stores, etc., our cars get us where we’re going. A significant aspect of owning a vehicle is gas mileage. Stopping for gas is as ubiquitous as planning your next meal; filling up both your gas […] The post What Affects Vehicle Gas Mileage? appeared first on Blog | Complete Auto Maintenance Centers.
Person cleaning a shiny black car with a cloth, water droplets visible on the surface

Easy Car Projects for Winter Storage

By CPS • January 12, 2022
Do you have a special little sports car that’s tucked away for winter storage? That vintage vehicle that you’ve been working on through the years? If you’re feeling some separation anxiety, have no fear, there are a few things you can do to keep the car in good condition throughout winter. Dent InventoryHave you been […] The post Easy Car Projects for Winter Storage appeared first on Blog | Complete Auto Maintenance Centers.

Removing Stickers from Your Car

By CPS • December 9, 2021
We’ve all been there: feeling super supportive over a cause, presidential candidate, or your kid being on the honor roll. Eventually, that family of stick figures will outgrow the original message…but now there’s a faded, stuck-on sticker glued to your vehicle. What’s the best way to remove them, you wonder? Look no further; we have […] The post Removing Stickers from Your Car appeared first on Blog | Complete Auto Maintenance Centers.